Renzo Gracie is viewed as one of the greatest BJJ artists ever, and an inspiration to many. He does us the honor of passing on his skills and wisdom.

Thai Clinch Counter to Side Control

1. Renzo and Ali square off.

2. Ali grabs Renzo’s neck with both hands in a traditional Thai clinch. 

3. Renzo reaches over Ali’s arm and grabs the back of Ali’s neck with his left hand, while maintaining control just underneath Ali’s left elbow. 

4. Keeping hold of his grips, Renzo pops his left shoulder hard into Ali’s right arm, breaking the grip around his neck. 

5. With Ali’s arms out of the way, Renzo steps close to Ali’s body. Renzo places his left leg just behind Ali’s right leg to stop him from stepping away. 

6. Renzo sharply pulls down on Ali’s neck with his left hand while pushing with his right. Renzo’s leg blocks Ali’s ability to move, forcing Ali to topple backwards. 

7. Renzo continues to control Ali down to the mat.

8. Renzo lands in side control.